Started by a Jamie Oliver protege, it’s no surprise that Daniel Nowland has been able to create a deli that focuses on independently and ethically produced food to the people of Southsea, as an alternative to shopping in the larger supermarkets. Championing seasonal food, it looks to cater to the needs of the community. Whilst primarily a food store, there are also a small number of seats, as well as space to host events and food workshops, provide outside catering, and hosting the occasional supperclub.
The space is light, and combines a mixture of deli counters, wines, local beers, and sweet treats, with suppliers from Hampshire, Sussex, Dorset and Somerset. Fresh food is prepared daily, to give a choice of healthy and delicious food, using only the best of what is in season.
If you’re looking to sit down and dine, you can get breakfast and lunch options such as breakfast crostini with isle of wight tomatoes and rocket, and toasted banana bread with whipped mascarpone. For lunch, think Buddha bowls, antipasti boards, and a selection of sandwiches such as coppa, mozzarella and slow roasted tomatoes. There’s a deli truck to hire for private events such as weddings, markets and garden parties, with its own power and water supply, as well as barista coffee and even a licensed bar.
Catering is available for events outside of the shop, such as in offices, at celebrations, and a variety of functions. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the workshops available too, which are held at the sister company, Southsea Cookery School, where you can learn anything from how to make colourful summer rolls, to Mexican tacos. These are intimate classes where you cook the dishes, and then gather around the table to eat them together too.